January 12, 2025 — Episode #54
Continuing their series on senior adults, Jerry and Becky Drace tackle some common myths about getting older before turning to a deeper, practical look at dementia.
They work through three myths — that everyone over 65 is “old,” that most older people are in poor health, and that older minds can’t stay sharp — countering each with examples of active, mentally engaged seniors. The conversation then shifts to dementia, drawing on insight from a longtime friend who is a physician specializing in cognitive decline. He walks them through seven clinical stages, from no cognitive decline through very severe decline, describing symptoms like memory lapses, disorientation, wandering, and personality changes, along with practical advice for families: how to recognize warning signs, when to seek a clinical evaluation, and what to look for — especially nighttime care — when choosing a care facility for a loved one.
Topics discussed:
- Common myths about aging and mental sharpness
- The seven clinical stages of dementia
- Warning signs like memory lapses, disorientation, and wandering
- Hallucinations and personality changes in advanced dementia
- Supporting family caregivers without guilt
- What to look for when choosing a memory care facility
- Becky’s book “The Bright Side of Blue”
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